AMW Reviews: The Balm FratBoy Shadow/Blush

My dearest friend from Malaysia (you know who you are sweetie pie, thank you!) asked me if I've tried any The Balm product.  I gave a sheepish "no" and told her we do have them locally but I just didn't get the chance to even visit the stores who sell them due to my super busy schedule.

She said: "No worries!"  

When we met, she handed me the gorgeous FratBoy shadow/Blush and told me its a gorgeous color!  I agree, I gave it a try the next day and the days after, I even have this blush on while I type this post.

The Balm FratBoy Shadow/Blush says ---

This velvety smooth, peachy-apricot shadow/blush adds the perfect amount of color for a foxy flush so you look stellar around the clock.  Frat Boy leaves you with a face that's pretty and polished.  When you can't keep the boys away, blame it on the blush.

Ingredients:
Mica, Boron Nitride, Polyethylene, Isoeicosane, Silica, Ptfe, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Polyisobutene, Dimethicone, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Carmine (C1 75470), Iron Oxides (C1 77491, C1 77492).

AMW says ---

Pros

• Some may not like the carton packaging but I actually love it for the fact that it's a super space saver!  I can easily fit this in on tiny spaces left on my makeup traincase.
• Comes with a mirror.
• Gives out a pinkish matte finish yet exudes a healthy, unexplainable glow.
• Smooth texture.
• A little goes a long way.
• Works as eyeshadow and blush, but I prefer to use this for the latter.
• Build-able, you can create a light flush to a super "obviously there" wild blushing.

Cons

• The Balm can still come up with MORE blushes!  
• Oily individuals may find this to disappear on them in less than half a day.
• Available locally.

Overall
Compared the product on pan, I like it once applied on my cheeks!  It just shows that we can't judge a blush by it's "cartoon-ish" cover!  *laughs*

Tips

• Test on different blush brush to get the right "pigmentation".  I prefer using this with my Charm Vegan Powder Brush. 
• If you like to have a better glow on cheeks, apply your favorite "illuminizer" on top of the FratBoy.
• Apply with big fluffy brush on the apples of your cheeks for a sweet glow.
• Apply on the apples of your cheeks going upwards to the temple for a more defined look.
• It helps to apply a cream based blush underneath for the blush to stay longer.
• If you apply too much, do not worry but apply your shade of powder foundation on top.
• It helps to keep the "sleeves" so this won't open up accidentally inside your bag.
  

Will I repurchase?

Not the same shade, but I just checked the online site and I would love to give Cabana Boy and Down Boy a try :)

To whom do I recommend this to?
Blush lovers out there who has the same thinking as mine --- "You can never have enough blush!" *laughs*

Where to purchase and how much?
Locally, at the Beauty Bars for Php850.00 (approx $19.32).

The Balm FratBoy is a 

matte Pinky Peach Blush on pan

gives out a Satiny Finish on my cheeks

How do you like the blush on my cheeks?
Yay or nay?
Would you go for this shade?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Visa Debit Card

Remember my post re: Pay Now: Debit Cards?

Well, a couple of months after, Mr. AMW applied his own UnionBank Debit Card.  It was perfect timing as the Christmas season is here....of course, he shopped using his Debit Card with yours truly!  *laughs*  What's the point of shopping without the wonderful shopping companion? :P *pointing myself*

I love to use my credit cards and like I said, the only issue I have on using a credit card is hassle of long lines to withdraw cash and long queues on credit card payments on both the banks or malls!  Let's not forget the money that I separate and keep inside an envelope just to pay for credit cards on a monthly basis.

Note: You may think this is totally not related to beauty but I believe it is because I used this to purchase dresses, makeup and oh!  I dined using Mr. AMW's  this card a lot of times! 

Visa Debit Card says ---

Using your EON Visa Electron card is quicker than making a visit to the bank, more convenient than writing checks, and safer than carrying cash. And shopping at home or at locations around the world has never been easier. Using a Visa Electron card helps simplify your life. With a EON Visa Electron card purchase, the payment is automatically debited directly from your bank account. Your online banking statement then provides you with a record of all your EON Visa Electron card purchases, making it easier for you to manage your expenses.

Use your EON Visa Electron card instead of cash or checks to pay for purchases worldwide. So the next time you shop at the grocery store, dine at a restaurant, or fill your car with petrol, use your EON Visa Electron card. Visa debit makes shopping fast, convenient and safe. Visa debit cards are accepted at up to 27 million locations worldwide, giving you purchasing power whether you are at home or traveling.

Don't forget. You may also use your EON Visa Electron card to pay for many of the purchases you make while shopping on the Internet. And you can use your EON Visa Electron card to get cash at more than 1 Million PLUS /ATMs worldwide.

AMW says ---

Pros

• No need to separate cash payment and wait for monthly bills.
• No need to line up on ATM to withdraw cash.
• Safe to use, as signature is needed and some merchants would ask for ID.
• VISA card, so it's acceptable on most merchants that accepts credit card payments.
• Can be used even during travel.  Immediate deduction, no need to wait for the day the bill arrived and wonder how much the exchange rate would be.

• You can check your balance online.
• UnionBank Visa Debit Card also gives out freebies per usage (the last time I checked their online site).
• For online shopper like myself, I can use this to pay via Paypal and I don't need to calculate conversion rates twice! (via Paypal and via Credit Card companies).
• There are some freebies just by using the said card, you just have to keep yourself informed by checking out the websites of the banks who carry this debit card. 
• There's no "time frame" when it comes to payment, there were times I didn't get my credit card bill and I was charged with "late payment fees".  Huge hassle to give them a call.

Cons

• No credit card points! (I wish they would do that and I'll throw all my credit cards away!)

Overall

I am very happy with this, several merchants I've tried using this Visa Debit Card.

Food and drinks- Wee Nam Kee, Emerald Garden, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf

Clothing: - SM Department Store, Karimadon, Rustan's

Daily needs - Grocery shopping at Puregold and SM Grocery.

Toys - Toys R Us

Medicines: Mercury Drugstore

I'm quite impressed there weren't any issues using the card on several merchants and it was quick and easy!  I only need to keep my receipts for my own reference then I don't need to worry about anything else but earn more money!  *laughs*

Tips

• A minimal fee of Php350.00 (for Unionbank) to get your own Debit card.
• Always keep the receipts to double check the amount deducted.
• To keep yourself from overspending, it helps to keep track the amount on a monthly basis that you need to spend.  Once you go overboard, you can keep the card at home.
• Keep bank numbers just in case your card gets lost or stolen.

Will I deposit more in this card?
Yes, but I will still keep my other credit cards (seriously, just for the points!)

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who hates to withdraw cash, who doesn't need the points.

Where to apply?

Visit BDO, Chinatrust Commercial Bank, Equicom Savings Bank, Inc., HSBC, Standard Chartered Bank, Sterling Bank of Asia and Unionbank.

Would you go for a debit card?
Why or why not?
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: K-Palette 24H Real Lasting Eyeliner Waterproof

Note: This is a Waterproof version with WP printed on the pen.  This is different with the regular version.

I've seen K-Palette brand from various YouTube Beauty gurus.  A lot of them said this is their HG (Holy Grail) liquid liner.

To be honest, I never get swayed with people saying this is the best product to date not unless I gave them a try!  As you know, each product works differently to each individual!  Let's also consider the fact that we live in different countries so we always have to consider these factors in any products we use!

Recently, I got the K-Palette 24H Real Lasting Eyeliners and Eyebrow Liners, I've tested both products in various weather conditions and I'm finally ready to give my thoughts on the "Japan's Bestselling Eyeliner"!

They are available in 2 shades 

and I get to try them both!

Nail Art Tutorial: Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer

Happy Monday!  I'm jolly today because this week, there's more exciting things happening for me!  Benefit Opening at Greenbelt 5, Christmas Dinner with College friends, then...I'm off to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to be an actress!  *hahahaha*

Just joking!  I'm seriously off to Malaysia but sad to say, I'm not going to be an actress but I'll be joining fellow Nuffnangers for the Nuffnang Blog Awards 2011!  Don't worry, I'll definitely share to you my experience and I'll be a good AMW reporter! :)

To my nail art loving readers and friends, no matter how busy I am, I won't forget the Christmas Series!

Last week, it was "Snowman Says "Hi" 

This week, it's Rudolf saying: "I have a very shiny nose!" 

A lot of you have seen the cameo of Rudolf when I did a review on the 3s Pre-glued lashes.  To those who noticed and complimented his "cuteness", Rudolf blushes and says: "Thank you!" :P

Weekend Food Tripping at: 2nd's

Good morning ladies!  It's Sunday!!!  What do you plan to eat today?  I think you're probably craving for something that's why you checked out AMW as you know you'll be greeted with food!

Today's post is quite late, I actually forgot about these shots!  This was the night I attended the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign which was almost 2 months ago!!!  I was super late on the event itself so Shen, Rowena and Michelle have decided to spend more quality time with each other over dinner!  Shen picked 2nd's! :)

Let's start with my order, I wasn't that hungry so I went for sandwich!  Okay, it came out pretty huge!

Roast Beef and Raclette

Php495.00 (approx $11.25)

Open face roast beef on sourdough, melted raclette, fries

This is just so-so.  I've had better roast beef sandwiches in the past.

Truffled Three Cheese Mac

Php415.00 (approx $9.44)

Creamy emmenthal, sharp cheddar, and blue cheese with potato chip crust

This is Rowena's order and I'm glad I've tasted it (with her permission! lol)  I will definitely go for this on my next visit!  I like how the 3 cheeses were mixed together with a flavorful taste that's not overwhelming!

Lamb Caldereta Gratin

Php595.00 (approx $13.50)

The classic Filipino stew.  Topped with grated Swiss Cheese

and served with steamed rice

The sauce itself is so flavorful you can eat it with the rice!  I'm not a fan of lamb but it doesn't hurt to have some once in awhile especially mixed with Swiss Cheese.  Michelle liked her dish but I think we would both appreciate it if they offer more Lamb!  *lol*

Beef Rib Adobo

Php535.00 (approx $12.15)

Slow braised beef ribs adobo with garlic.
Served with steamed rice, green mango and salsa.

I understand why Shen is in love with this dish and would order this again and again!  The beef rib is definitely braised at the right amount of time and temperature.  The meat is flavorful and easy to bite!

The menu comes off a bit pricey but the servings are good and the ambiance is definitely a PRO!  Service is good and the servers are quite attentive to the needs of their guests.  

The restaurant accepts cash and credit card payments.

2nd's Bonifacio High Street

2/F Wumaco Bldg. 1, Quadrant 3

9th Ave. BHS, Taguig City

tel. no: (632) 846-5293

After dinner, we're all full and happy!

It helps that the dinner was filled 

with loads of celebrity gossips and laughters!

**photo grabbed from Mrs. M

Have you dined in 2nd's?
What's your favorite dish?
I will give it a try next!  

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!